What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
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What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
May 9, 2021
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a picture of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are fundamentally two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific students.
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Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific company do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.
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How to Request an EAD
Foreign nationals who are qualified for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant ought to include the following items for an initial request:
- Form I-765
USCIS fees
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates need to send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey delays or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will explain precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.
Replacement
You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.